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Liverpool FC have officially confirmed the appointment of Andoni Iraola as their new manager, marking the end of speculation over who would succeed Arne Slot at Anfield.

Instead of joining Bayer Leverkusen, Iraola, who had earlier been associated with the German club, is set to take over as the head coach of the English giants. This move also means he will be responsible for guiding Germany international Florian Wirtz. The announcement comes just five days after Liverpool parted ways with Slot. The 43-year-old Basque coach’s departure from Premier League side AFC Bournemouth had already been confirmed prior to his new role.

Expressing his excitement, Iraola said in an official club statement, “I’m absolutely thrilled. Liverpool is one of the greatest clubs in the world. It doesn’t take much to be drawn to it. Liverpool is Liverpool.”

Slot, his predecessor, had taken charge in the summer of 2024 following Jürgen Klopp’s departure. During his tenure, he led the Reds to their 20th league title but left after finishing fifth in his second season in charge.

Bayer Leverkusen were also keen on Iraola, but once Liverpool’s interest became apparent, the Bundesliga side shifted direction. On Thursday, they announced the appointment of Spaniard Carles Martínez, formerly of FC Toulouse, as Kasper Hjulmand’s replacement.

A former Spain international with two caps, Iraola impressed during his stint with Bournemouth, steering the team to a sixth-place finish in the Premier League—just three points and one position behind Liverpool—despite working with limited resources. His dynamic and entertaining style of football earned widespread praise and ultimately caught the attention of the Merseyside club.